Making sure you get top dollar for your property isn’t just about luck – there are plenty of simple and affordable ways that homeowners can increase their home’s value before the sale. Whether tackling DIY projects or investing in cost-effective renovations, these tips and tricks will help boost your asking price without breaking the bank.
Maintenance and Repairs
The first step in ensuring you get top dollar for the sale of your home is tending to all necessary maintenance and repairs before listing it on the market. Not only is this good business, but it will also prevent potential buyers from trying to discount your home due to fix-it projects they’ll have to tend to after moving in. For example:
Fix leaks or water damage: If any part of your home suffers from water damage, address it as soon as possible. Water damage can lead to mold, which no potential buyer wants to deal with, and may cause them to ask for a reduced price.
Update windows and doors: Old or outdated windows and doors can immediately turn off potential buyers. Invest in modern options that are both energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing.
Replace any damaged or worn-out roofing or siding: Roofs in poor condition or damaged siding can be eyesores that lower your home’s curb appeal and value.
Repair any cracks or damage to the foundation or walls: Your home’s foundation is integral to its value, and signs of structural damage could cause buyers to think twice before making an offer. Address any cracks or damage before listing your home.
Repair or replace damaged electrical fixtures or outlets: If any of your outlets or wiring is outdated, unsafe, or needing repair, take care of it before listing your home.
See to it that light fixtures and ceiling fans are correctly working: Replace light fixtures and ceiling fans if necessary.
Ensure the HVAC system is working efficiently: An HVAC system in pristine condition will make your home more comfortable for potential buyers and save them money on their energy bills.
Replace any damaged or worn gutters or downspouts: Your gutters should be in good condition and installed properly to ensure good drainage.
Repair or replace damaged fencing or gates: Fencing in poor condition or disrepair can be a significant turnoff for potential buyers.
Enhance Curb Appeal
When preparing your house for sale, you can’t underestimate the power of curb appeal. Curb appeal is about potential buyers’ emotional reactions when looking at your home from the street. Curb appeal is their first impression; it draws them in and makes them feel welcomed. Many house hunters start their journey online, so the images of your home’s exterior will determine whether potential buyers take the next step and schedule a showing.
Power wash driveway: A driveway can be a big selling point for potential buyers, especially if you live in an area with cold winters. Investing in a power wash to remove dirt or grime and make it look new will go a long way.
Paint the exterior: A fresh coat of paint on the exterior of your home will add instant curb appeal. Stick to neutral colors that will have a broad appeal among potential buyers.
Clean windows and gutters: Dirty windows and gutters give a house a dingy, run-down, and unkempt appearance. You can greatly boost your home’s exterior with a simple but thorough cleaning.
Add lush landscaping: Plants, shrubs, and trees in your front yard instantly add value to your home. Pick low-maintenance plants. Also, clean any debris, pull weeds, trim hedges, and store lawn furniture unless you can use it to enhance outdoor living space.
Add outdoor lighting: Outdoor lighting can add a luxurious touch to your home’s exterior while providing security.
Interior Staging
Your home’s interior is equally important for making a good impression on potential buyers. By taking some time to stage your home, you can make it look its best and help potential buyers imagine themselves living there.
Declutter: Steer clear of clutter by storing away any unnecessary items or furniture that may take up space in your home.
Deep clean: Make sure your home is clean from top to bottom. Deep clean carpets, tile, counters, and cabinets. Eliminate odors that may be lingering in the house.
Depersonalize: Put away family photos and personal items so would-be buyers can imagine themselves living there without being distracted by your belongings.
Repaint walls: Give the walls in your home a fresh coat of paint with neutral colors like white, gray, or beige to make the space feel modern and inviting.
Update fixtures: Replacing outdated fixtures with newer models can help update the look of your home without breaking the bank.
Add rugs: Area rugs can add warmth and coziness to any room while defining different spaces within the same area.
Rearrange furniture: Change up the look of a room by rearranging the furniture in it. Move large pieces away from walls to create inviting conversation areas with smaller pieces.
Add accessories: Adding a few finishing touches, like wall art, throw pillows, and plants, can help add personality to the space and make it more inviting.
Conclusion
Investing time and money into maintenance and repairs, improving your home’s curb appeal, and staging the interior will help increase your home’s value.
On the outside, power wash the driveway, paint the exterior and clean the windows and gutters. Adding landscaping and outdoor lighting can also increase curb appeal. On the inside, focus on decluttering, deep cleaning, depersonalizing, repainting walls, updating fixtures, adding rugs and accessories, and rearranging furniture.
Tending to these steps before putting your home on the market will significantly improve its chances of selling quickly and for top dollar.
Talk with your trustworthy, professional seller’s real estate agent today. They are experts in helping you prepare, price, and market your house so that you can sell it promptly and for the highest possible price.
